Final pieces of Whorlton Bridge, near Barnard Castle, removed

The ancient suspension bridge in Whorlton, near Barnard Castle, opened nearly 200 years ago - and Durham County Council says it’s time for a makeover.

After damages to the structure were found in 2019, an inspection forced the council to close it off to all vehicles - and all users the year after to begin refurbishment.

The council is aiming to restore the bridge to its former glory by taking it down and refurbishing it piece by piece.

With the components of the bridge now all carefully removed and placed in storage, the parts will undergo testing before being refurbished - blasted and painted – and reassembled.

The final pieces of Whorlton Bridge being removed (Image: Richard Laidler)

Built as part of an 1829 law that saw an expansion of the turnpike system, the largest network of privately-funded roads in history at that time, Whorlton Bridge was originally used to carry coal from the fields. Britain hasn’t built anything as comprehensive since.

The council has been working closely with Historic England and the Environment Agency on this Grade II* listed structure, which is the UK’s oldest road suspension bridge and renowned for its original iron chains supporting the deck.

Cllr John Shuttleworth, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for highways, rural communities, and community safety, said: “Restoring Whorlton Bridge is an incredibly intricate operation.

Cllr John Shuttleworth on Whorlton Bridge before it was dismantled (Image: DURHAM COUNTY COUNCIL)

“As a designated historic monument, it is essential that the bridge is reconstructed to its original specifications. This means we are striving to reuse as many of the original components as possible and are treating every piece with great care.

“To ensure a safe dismantling process, we used a cable crane beneath the bridge, allowing our team to move securely from one side to the other while performing necessary work.

Most read:

• Durham council praises Seaham despite concern over parking charges
• Former Bluebell Primary School in Trimdon Grange to be redeveloped
• Renewed plea to demolish 'disgrace' former pub in South Hetton

Don’t miss out on our biggest sale of the year! Get a full year of the Northern Echo for only £25 or try six months for just £6. 

"This delicate operation involved over two years of engineering design to avoid damaging the structure. To have it now fully removed is a significant step in this important project and we’re pleased to move on to the next stage.”

Reconstruction of the bridge is set to begin next spring.

For more information about the restoration project, visit www.durham.gov.uk/whorltonbridge